Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP)

Before you ship to Basic Combat Training (BCT), you'll attend the Recruit Sustainment Program (RSP). These weekends will be your introduction to BCT and will get you started and keep you on track, mentally, physically and emotionally while you prepare for your career in the Guard.

There are five phases of RSP training:

Red Phase 

Your first weekend at RSP is “Red Phase.” In this intensive first few days, you’ll learn basics you need to know right away, like:

  • The Army Values
  • Army structure and ranks
  • Saluting and forms of address
  • Military time, military history and more

As you learn the Army structure, chain of command and rank insignia, you’ll quickly learn how to follow the rules and extend the proper courtesies to fellow Guard members. And you’ll get ahead of the game if you learn them early. Learn more about Red Phase. 

White Phase 

Depending on the number of months between when you enlisted and when you ship to BCT, the length of your “White Phase” in the RSP will vary. During this phase, you’ll learn more about the Guard and more of what you’ll need to know to succeed at BCT. The classroom portion of White Phase will include instruction in three main areas:

  • The Training Mentality
  • Physical Preparation
  • Military History

You'll learn all about the importance of The Army Physical Fitness Test, and how your fitness level can have a tremendous impact on promotions, special schools and just about every part of your Guard career. Learn more about White Phase. 

Blue Phase 

At your final drill before shipping to Basic Combat Training (BCT), you’ll cover all the final details that have to be taken care of before you leave. But you can get a jump-start on these items by learning what to expect before, during and after BCT. Learn more about Blue Phase. 

Green Phase 

Green Phase courses are designed for recruits in the Split Training Option (STO) Program. These courses offer advanced leadership training on a series of topics like:

  • Mentorship—guide less experienced recruits, and help them succeed
  • Effective Counseling—learn techniques for giving and receiving counseling
  • Career Planning—start setting goals now, and learn the steps to achieve them

Learn more about Green Phase. 

Gold Phase 

Once you’ve completed both BCT and Advanced Individual Training Advanced Individual Training:
(AIT) Following Basic Training, Soldiers attend AIT to learn a military job skill. Depending on the specialty, training ranges from 1 month to 1 year.  (AIT), you might return to RSP for one final drill—known as Battle Handoff—before joining your regular unit and beginning work in your MOS. You’ll meet representatives from your unit and learn where and when your next drill will be. Before you leave, you’ll learn about the Unit Sponsorship Program and get a final HOOAH talk about holding yourself to the high standards of fitness and behavior you’ve learned at RSP and Initial Active Duty Training. Learn more about Gold Phase. 

 


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